Natural Disaster Risk in Pacific County

Natural Hazard Profile: Pacific County, Washington

Pacific County, in the United States in Washington, is characterized by its oceanic climate — mild, rainy winters west of the Cascades and semi-arid conditions to the east. The county faces a critical wildfire period in eastern Washington each summer, and its FEMA risk assessment establishes the hazard baseline shared by all the towns and cities it contains.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Pacific County carries an overall risk score of 4.9/10, placing it in the moderate category. Tsunami risk is the primary coastal hazard, driven by the area's proximity to seismically active offshore zones capable of generating ocean waves that inundate low-lying coastlines. The area also faces notable exposure to coastal flood and earthquake.

Within Washington, Pacific County's risk is, slightly below the 5.8/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Pacific County identifies tsunami as the foremost hazard, followed by coastal flood and earthquake. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Pacific County residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for tsunami is recommended.